Thursday, 22 December 2016

Jason Smallwood is the newest edition to the dealers at Alfies, and he's bought with him a very unique collection of pieces - many with unique histories too.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I have been collecting 'Outsider Art' for about 25 years now. It's just a genre of Art that interests me. Usually the narrative or the story of the artist is mostly of a non academic background and rarely were they accepted by the class of the academic art world, involving gallery exhibitions. There is also usually some form of mental illness involved in the character of the artist.

How did you become a dealer?

I was a collector before I was a dealer and it's just something that grew into what I now do for a living. I have sold collections of rare paintings, I have discovered and owned some of the biggest buyers in this field of art. Having a love and passion for this kind of art has really helped my business as an art dealer.

How would you describe your stock?

My stock is an interesting mix of self-taught, outsider, non-academic and visionary painters and sculptors..all with very interesting backgrounds.

Do you have any personal favourites in your collection?

Current favourites in my stock right now are two rare and original 1971 private language paintings by the Plymouth based artist Robert Lenkiewicz. These were personal paintings of Lenkiewicz's that have been in a private collection for years, so now is the first time they have been viewed by the public. I met Lenkiewicz when he was alive and visited his studio in the nineties. To me he is one of the great "outsider" painters. He owned a 17th century skeleton of a woman called Ursula Kemp who was killed by trial for Witchcraft, and also embalmed the body of his friend and kept him in the drawer of his studio.

I collect lots of things, some useless and some beautiful, but mostly they are interesting and bizarre.

If you could own any piece of art from history what would it be?

I would love to own a painting called 'Peter and the Fisherman' by Mary Barnes circa 1960s/70s. I have owned various works by Mary Barnes at different times, and have sold them on to private buyers. But this one is a fantastic painting and one I would keep hold of.

You can find Jason at Alfies Antique Market, stand F051-51. Below are a few examples of items you'll find in his stand...

Mick Spilane Sculpture, 20th century

Richard Mcreith painting, acrylic on paper, 20th century

Mick Spilane drawing, crayon on paper, 20th century

Richard Mckreith painting, acrylic on paper, 20th century

Locket necklace pendant with illustrations made from hair, 20th century

Friday, 16 December 2016

David Harper has recently moved into the Second Floor Gallery, you'll find his vivid artwork adorning the light filled space, along with limited edition prints and a carefully curated selection of lighting and furniture.

My stock at Alfies dates from the 17th century to mid 20th century furniture, lighting and sculpture - then into the 21st century century with my paintings.

Do you have any personal favourites in your collection?

Currently my favourite piece is a crocodile embossed leather chair. Amazingly I recently bought this chair back after having it made and then sold as a one off for an exhibition 15 years ago.

What piece would you love to find?

I’ve found many very special pieces over the years, but coming across a forgotten Picasso would be quite nice!

Do you have a favourite gallery to visit in London?

My favourite galleries in London are the museums…not very much in design is actually that new. Look closely at modern shapes and styles and you’ll see images from the past. I get inspiration from these places for my paintings.

Do you collect anything?

I collect classic cars.

If you could own any piece of art from history what would it be?

An early 1960s Bentley Continental Convertible…as much a piece of art as anything I’ve ever seen.

Here's a selection of eye-catching pieces you'll find in the Second Floor Gallery...

David HarperSecond Floor Gallery
Take the lift to the second floor or turn right at the top of the main wooden staircase.
Tel: 07593 178 005 | Email: dharperantiques@gmail.com

Thursday, 1 December 2016

Christmas
is arguably the ultimate dining event. For some, it's the one meal of
the year when families and friends come together and make time for each
other. An event that's steeped in tradition, it's not just the food
itself that is part of the ritual of Christmas but also the decoration
of the dining table.

To mark the beginning of December, and the Alfies Christmas Shopping Event, which takes place today, we have collected some of Alfies' best dinnerware to help inspire your Christmas planning.

Alfies Antique Market

Alfies is one of the largest and most loved antique markets in London. Celebrating 40 years in business it not only is one of the capitals most established markets but is also home to some of it's finest dealers.

The writers of this blog are dedicated to sharing some of the wonderful gems and secrets that can found within this Aladdins cave.